Since 4 February, the Navy and Air Force have flown at least 25 missions near Havana and Santiago de Cuba, including P-8A, RC-135V and MQ-4C aircraft, some within 40 miles.
The uptick followed Trump's tougher language, an oil blockade and expanded sanctions, while the Pentagon declined comment and Cuba rejected claims it threatens US national security.
Such visible surveillance buildups preceded US operations involving Venezuela and Iran, and analysts say leaving aircraft trackable may also serve as a deliberate warning signal to Cuban officials.
Are America's visible spy flights a final warning to Cuba or a calculated bluff in a high-stakes geopolitical game?
After US actions in Venezuela and Iran, is the massive surveillance of Cuba a prelude to another military intervention?
25+ U.S. Surveillance Flights Off Cuba Since Feb 2026: Escalating Tensions, Humanitarian Crisis, and Great Power Competition
Overview
Since February 2026, the U.S. has sharply increased surveillance flights off Cuba, following a rise in tough rhetoric from U.S. leadership and a presidential order for an oil blockade. This surge is closely linked to concerns over energy security and the Caribbean’s strategic importance, with Cuba seen as a key player in great-power competition. U.S. officials point to alleged Russian and Chinese intelligence bases in Cuba as reasons for stronger action. These developments highlight how U.S. policy, regional security interests, and global rivalries are driving heightened military activity and tension in the region.